Arxiu de la categoria: Long-eared Owl (Asio atus)

From mid-2013 we have implemented a new nocturnal birding trip in Los Monegros renamed steppe land. This trip is 2 to 3 hours long and provides unforgettable views to some very striking nocturnal birds including huge specialities such as Red-necked Nightjar (Caprimulgus ruficollis) but also spread but difficult to spot owls such as Long-eared Owl (Asio otus).

The tour is lead by two different local guides on a special 4wds vehicle to explore a variety of landscapes in Finca Sant Miquel (Zaidín), a private land that is implementing a owl protection scheme within its territory, taking special care in the protection and preservation of Long-eared & Barn Owls.

Long-eared Owl (Asio otus) at Finca Sant Miquel (Zaidín)

Some of the habitats that we run around include steppe lands, berry orchards and grass lands. Along them we will locate a wide variety of Owls including also Barn Owl (Tyto alba), Little Owl (Athene noctua), the very scarce Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo) and, in winter, Short-eared Owl (Asia flammeus). European Nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus) it is far scarcer but still is sometimes appearing!

Although this nocturnal trip is a huge attraction by its own, we normally include it in our tours visiting the steppe lands. Those tours are two or four days long and provide excellent sights of all main steppe-living birds such as Sandgrouses (Black-bellied & Pin-tailed), Bustards (Great & Little), Roller, raptors & Larks (Calandra, Thekla, Dupont’s, Lesser Short-toed…)

Our nocturnal trip throughout Los Monegros is an unique and unforgettable opportunity to see Owls & Nightjars in their normal behaviour during the hours they are more active! And, of course, birds are not to be disturbed!!!